Security alarms can prevent break-ins and reduce your insurance premiums

Regina had the worst per capita property crime rate in Canada in 1998 and Saskatoon was third worst, according to Statistics Canada. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to help protect your home and property.

For example, home security alarms are a proven deterrent to would-be burglars and vandals and many insurance companies offer a discount for homeowners with approved alarm systems.

"Homeowners with alarms generally have fewer claims related to burglary, theft and vandalism than homeowners without," says Lorne Whippler, SGI CANADA’s Assistant Vice President of Personal Lines. "That’s why we offer a 15 per cent premium discount for eligible alarm systems."

Whippler says to qualify for the discount the alarm must be professionally installed, have CSA-approved components, and be monitored around the clock by a security company.

Premium discounts and theft deterrence aren’t the only benefits of having a monitored home security system, Whippler says, noting that an alarm often provides homeowners with greater peace of mind while they’re away from their residence.

"A residential break-in happens every 90 seconds in Canada, costing Canadian insurance companies millions of dollars each year in claim settlements," Whippler says. "By encouraging homeowners to install monitored alarm systems, we’re hopeful we can reduce the number of claims for theft and vandalism and keep insurance premiums affordable for everyone."

For more information, contact:
Lorne Whippler
Assistant Vice President, Personal Lines
SGI
Regina
(306) 751-1898

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Protecting Your Home Against Break-ins (April, 1999)
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